Petrolatum (petroleum jelly)
Category: Emollient
Brief description: A semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum; creates a protective barrier on the skin.
Benefits: Moisturizes, prevents transepidermal water loss, and protects the skin from environmental irritants.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for all skin types, particularly dry or sensitive skin; may be too heavy for oily or acne-prone skin.
Target audience: All age groups, those with dry or sensitive skin, and those seeking intense moisturization and protection.
Chemical composition: A mixture of hydrocarbons, primarily saturated.
Physical aspect: Semi-solid, translucent, colorless or pale yellow, and odorless.
Compatibility: Mixes well with other oils, butters, and ingredients in cosmetic formulations.
Concentration: Typically used at 1-100% in formulations.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Generally well-tolerated; may cause an allergic reaction in rare cases or clog pores in some individuals.
Regulatory status: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA; no major restrictions.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Opt for USP or BP-grade petrolatum to ensure purity and minimal environmental impact during the refining process.
Brief description: A semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum; creates a protective barrier on the skin.
Benefits: Moisturizes, prevents transepidermal water loss, and protects the skin from environmental irritants.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for all skin types, particularly dry or sensitive skin; may be too heavy for oily or acne-prone skin.
Target audience: All age groups, those with dry or sensitive skin, and those seeking intense moisturization and protection.
Chemical composition: A mixture of hydrocarbons, primarily saturated.
Physical aspect: Semi-solid, translucent, colorless or pale yellow, and odorless.
Compatibility: Mixes well with other oils, butters, and ingredients in cosmetic formulations.
Concentration: Typically used at 1-100% in formulations.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Generally well-tolerated; may cause an allergic reaction in rare cases or clog pores in some individuals.
Regulatory status: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA; no major restrictions.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Opt for USP or BP-grade petrolatum to ensure purity and minimal environmental impact during the refining process.
